This is a simple beef broth that’s good for moistening beef braises and stews and soups.

　　

Ingredients

makes about 3 quarts

　　4 pounds beef bones, preferably a mixture of meaty bones and knuckles

　　1 carrot, peeled and cut into large pieces

　　1 onion, peeled and cut into large pieces

　　1 celery stalk, cut into large pieces

　　A few black peppercorns

　　3 thyme sprigs

　　2 tomatoes, quartered (optional)

　　A few parsley stems

　　

Step 1

Place on a heavy-duty baking sheet or in a roasting pan: 4 pounds beef bones, preferably a mixture of meaty bones and knuckles.

　　

Step 2

Roast in a 400°F oven until brown, about 25 minutes. Turn the bones over, then add to the roasting pan: 1 carrot, peeled and cut into large pieces, 1 onion, peeled and cut into large pieces, 1 celery stalk, cut into large pieces.

　　

Step 3

Roast for another 25 minutes. Put the bones and vegetables into a large pot with: A few black peppercorns, 3 thyme sprigs, 2 tomatoes, quartered (optional), A few parsley stems.

　　

Step 4

Cover with 1 gallon water. Bring to a boil and turn down to a simmer. Skim off all the foam. Simmer for 6 hours. Check the level of the liquid and add more water if it drops below the level of the bones. Strain and skim the fat. Allow to cool before covering. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.

　　The Art of Simple Food